UKCSA “Excellence in the Use of Cast Stone” Awards 2025

Voting is now open in the UKCSA 34th Anniversary, “Excellence in the Use of Cast Stone” 2025 Awards competition, for projects that have used the cast stone manufacturing Full Members’ own cast stone. The UKCSA 2025 Awards will be judged in five Categories:

Category 1: Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Mixed Use Project.
Category 2: Best use of Cast Stone on a Residential / Single Dwelling.
Category 3: Best use of Cast Stone on a Unique / Small Project.
Category 4: Best use of Cast Stone on a Restoration / Refurbishment.
Category 5: Best use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

The Winners will be decided by a combination of your votes, and a specially selected judging panel. UKCSA Full Members, their employees and associates, are not allowed to vote, and any votes placed by them will be disregarded.

The UKCSA Excellence in the Use of Cast Stone voting form can be found at the end of this page.

There will also be an Associate Award, awarded to one of our Associate Members who has supported a Full Member over the last 2 years, whether directly as part of a project team or as a general supplier, the winner of which will be decided by the judging panel.

A full preview of the finalist entries are given below, and further details will be available on the linked Projects pages of this UKCSA website. The Winners will be announced at the UKCSA 2025 Awards and Networking event and free tickets for this are now available.

The decision of the UK Cast Stone Association (UKCSA) shall be final in all aspects appertaining to the competition, and by submitting an entry or vote, and by participating in the competition, then you are deemed to have accepted that this is the case.

AWARDS CATEGORY 1 – Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed Use Project.

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 1

Project name: High Quality Precast Units for St Helen & St Katharine Sixth Form Centre

Building type: Education

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Abingdon, Oxfordshire

St Helen & St Catherine Sixth Form Centre is a state-of-the-art education facility that required the use of precast elements both internally and externally to meet its design requirements.

The architects, TSH architects, collaborated with the contractors and Amber Valley Stone to ensure that the precast units met the design specifications and were manufactured and installed with the utmost precision.

Challenge:

The challenge for Amber Valley Stone was to manufacture and supply high-quality precast units that would meet the strict design requirements of the St Helen & St Catherine six form centre.

The precast elements needed to be robust and of high quality, with clean and consistent finished faces and corners. The project also required a special colour, which was achieved through a special blend of aggregates, pigments and the use of a medium etch finish.

“I’m happy to confirm that Amber Valley Stone has provided a professional and helpful service throughout the design, manufacture, and construction of the precast units for the recently completed six form centre at St Helen & St Catherine School, Abingdon”

John Dymock – Benfield and Loxley

Solution:

Amber Valley Stone engaged with the architects and contractors early on in the project to ensure that the design and fixings of the precast elements were discussed thoroughly. This allowed for smooth approval, production, and installation on the site. The team worked tirelessly to produce 114 tonnes of precast units, consisting of 881 individual units in the WC-0251ME colour specified by the architects. The precast elements were manufactured using a wet cast process, which allowed for a high level of accuracy in the finished product.

“The precast elements are clearly robust and high quality with many complex shapes. All have satisfying consistent, clean finished faces and corners. We would be very happy to work with amber valley on future projects.”

John Dymock – Benfield and Loxley

Result:

The collaboration between Amber Valley Stone, the architects, and the contractors resulted in a successful project completion with high quality precast units. The precast elements supplied by Amber Valley Stone met the design requirements and were manufactured installed to the utmost precision.

The precast units were robust, with clean and consistent finished faces and corners, and their quality was evident in the finished sixth form centre. The client, architects and contractors were happy with the quality of the precast elements provided by Amber Valley Stone.

Amber Valley Stones successful completion of the St Helen & St Catherine Sixth Form Centre project is testament to their ability to collaborate with architects and contractors to provide high quality precast units that meet the design requirements. Their attention to detail and commitment to precision resulted in a successful project.

A showcast of the cast stone used in this project

A showcase of the cast stone used in this project

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 2

Project name: Currus Court

Building type: Commercial

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Canterbury

Background: Craftstone was delighted to be involved in the redevelopment of the former site of St Mary Bredin school in Canterbury with client and contractor, Canbury Construction.

This site consisted of the former Saint Mary Bredin school, a mid-Victorian, single-storey building, which closed in the 1940s. It was later used as a garage by the Canterbury Motor Company in the 1950s and has been predominantly vacant since.

It has now been transformed into luxury student accommodation designed by Hollaway Studios architects and has been renamed as Currus court.

Craftstone is proud to have contributed to this impressive five-storey project by manufacturing and delivering the bespoke cast stone elements.

Our scope included:
Cills
Jambs
Lintels

These form key architectural features, including the apex and rectangular detailing around the glazed panels. Additionally, we supplied the columns and panels at ground floor level, adding to the building’s distinctive character.

The design draws inspiration from canterbury’s rich architectural heritage, blending contemporary style the charm of the mediaeval city walls opposite.

The new building features:
146 bedrooms in studio and cluster flats
Multipurpose lounges and study spaces
A gym and communal dining area
A rooftop terrace with stunning views of Canterbury and the cathedral

This project has helped rejuvenate a neglected site and provide students with luxurious home from home accommodation.

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 3

Project name: Brunswick Arcade

Building type: Mixed use development

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Hull

Background: Brunswick arcade, a prominent terrace of 15 brick properties built around 1890, is a significant historical landmark in Hull. Originally constructed to cater to the growing demand for retail spaces off Beverley Rd, the arcade was purchased by Hull City Council about 20 years ago and was in a state of dereliction at the time. In 2021, as part of the Beverley Rd townscape heritage scheme, the arcade underwent a multi -million-pound regeneration funded by the National Lottery heritage fund and Hull City Council.

The project aimed to restore the arcade to its former glory, with a focus on bringing it back into economic use by reinstating retail units on the ground floor and creating retail accommodation on the upper levels. The regeneration also involved upgrading the building’s frontage to align with surrounding conservation areas architectural style.

Cast stone was pivotal in maintaining the authenticity and traditional feel of the arcade’s façade. A range of bespoke cast stone components were produced by Haddonstone to restore and replicate the arcade’s original architectural detailing. These included window surrounds, string courses, pediments, decorative corbels, and vertical, radial, and flat copings along the exterior roofline.

To ensure the new cast stone elements seamlessly integrated with the existing red brick work, a meticulous process was followed. Detailed surveys were conducted to capture the profiles of the original stonework, with 3D scanning used to replicate intricate features, such as flower motifs in the window jambs. These profiles were then translated into CAD drawings, working closely with architects and engineers to ensure the components’ structural integrity, especially for load bearing elements like the first and 2nd floor window heads, which required reinforcement.

The cast stone components were manufactured in a traditional Bath colour, and from a wet-cast limestone material known for its durability and ease of maintenance. This material’s smooth, sealed surface and ability to incorporate structural reinforcement made it an ideal choice for this project. The cast stone was poured into bespoke wooden, fibreglass, and rubber moulds, then hand finished and acid etched for refined appearance before being transported to the site.

The bespoke cast stone elements delivered a high quality finish that not only revitalise the arcade’s historic facade but also ensured the building met modern standards of structural performance. The restoration work at Brunswick arcade successfully blended traditional question ship with contemporary requirements, helping to preserve this important hull landmark for future generations.

The project completed in early 2024.

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 4

Project name: Evagreen

Building type: Mixed use development

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Wandsworth

Background: Evagreen is a collection of 17 studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes plus a commercial space in Wandsworth, crafted with the planet in mind. Discover a celebration of tactile materials, space is drenched in natural light and highly efficient, renewable heating system. A development that feels good and does good.

Woodside Cast Stone, in collaboration with Artform Group and MCC, a UKCSA Association member, the project pulled together a palette of smooth precast Portland caststone paired with tonal glazed bricks.

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 5

Project name: Riddel Hall

Building type: Commercial

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Belfast

Background: Queen’s management school has undertaken an exciting expansion that will establish a benchmark of global excellence for one of the top business schools in the UK and Ireland on the Riddel Hall campus.

A new 6000 square metre innovative building adjacent to listed red brick Riddel Hall will become the base for a vibrant student and staff community, providing an enhanced social and educational experience.

CraftStone we’re delighted to be involved in the refurbishment project for our client Queens University Belfast, working with Todd Architects and Felix O’Hare & Co Ltd. CraftStone supplied all the red cast stone in the form of columns, panels, bands, string courses and coping. Used principally to delineate entrance colonnades at the upper and lower entrances.

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 6

Project name: Office and Welfare Facilities

Building type: Commercial

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Stirling

Background: Plean Precast required a modern, high-quality replacement for our aging office and factory welfare facilities—one that could accommodate current staff while allowing for future growth. More than just a functional upgrade, the new facility was envisioned as a state-of-the-art workplace designed to attract and retain top talent while reflecting the company’s ambition, values, and commitment to quality materials. From the outset, it was clear that cast stone would play a defining role in the new building’s architectural identity, chosen for its durability, low maintenance, and sustainability advantages.

Collaborating with a local architectural practice, multiple design options were explored before finalizing a two-story scheme that would showcase cast stone architectural cladding across all elevations. The project successfully demonstrated how cast stone—typically specified for prestigious external projects—could also be used to create a bold, contemporary, and inspiring workspace for a manufacturing environment.

Once planning approval was secured, the project moved into the construction phase, with the UKCSA member acting as Client while maintaining direct oversight of design and delivery. The architectural cladding was designed, manufactured, and installed using the same supply chain partners the UKCSA manufacturer employs for its external projects—further proving the versatility and high standards of the material in a real-world, self-funded application.

Sustainability was a key driver in the project’s design. Locally sourced materials minimized transportation impact, while manufacturing took place directly on-site, further reducing carbon footprint. The building incorporates a high-efficiency HVAC system with air-sourced heat pumps and heat recovery, ensuring optimal energy performance. Additionally, the new office is powered by solar energy, with photovoltaic panels installed on the production shed roofs, significantly reducing operational energy consumption.

Employee wellbeing was a major consideration, and the new welfare facilities provide a vastly improved environment. Natural light has been maximized throughout, and modern breakout spaces, locker rooms, and a canteen designed to accommodate over 100 staff ensure greater comfort and usability. The contemporary cladding palette—a carefully curated combination of Skye White, Granite Grey, and Charcoal—creates a clean, modern aesthetic that seamlessly complements the interior design and overall layout of the building.

The result is a visually striking, high-performance facility that not only enhances the daily experience of employees but also reinforces the company’s identity as a leader in cast stone manufacturing.

AWARDS CATEGORY 2 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Residential Project/Single Dwelling.

Awards Category 2 – Best Residential/Single Dwelling – Entry No. 1

Project name: New House

Building type: Restoration & Refurbishment

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: UK

Background: Thorverton Cast Stone were tasked with fulfiling the architects and clients design brief shown on plans for a pair of new, exceptionally high specification semi-detached dwellings, in an exclusive area. The plans include stone surrounds for the windows including splayed bay windows, a portico and detailing on the chimney caps. Due to the nature of the properties, an exceptionally high standard of finishing and bespoke detailing was called for, a star shaped chimney cap was decided upon for the ornate brick chimney stacks.

Awards Category 2 – Best Residential/Single Dwelling – Entry No. 2

Project name: SWARG

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Burwood Park, Walton-on-Thames

Background: The Swarg residence at Chargate Close, Burwood Park, Walton-on-Thames, stands as a stunning testament to the beauty, quality, and versatility of precast cast stone. This exquisite private residence seamlessly blends classical architectural grandeur with contemporary elegance, delivering an awe-inspiring statement home within one of Surrey’s most prestigious locations.

Woodside Cast Stone were entrusted with designing and supplying the full range of architectural stone elements including:

Double Storey pilasters, pediment and entrance portico – a striking feature that really adds grandeur to the front elevation as a residence which is complemented with intricately detailed mouldings on the capitals and entablature.

Window and door surrounds- precision crafted stone surrounds enhancing the aesthetic depth of the façade.

Balustrades and coping stones- designed to add a sophisticated touch to rear terraces and balconies.

Cornices and string courses- contributing to the classical architectural detailing of the property.

Swarg amplifies the best of cast stone architecture, demonstrating how high quality materials and expert craftsmanship can transform a residential project into an architectural masterpiece. This full UKCSA member is proud to have played a key role in bringing this vision to life and believes this project is a deserving candidate for the UKCSA best residential single dwelling award in 2025

Awards Category 2 – Best Residential/Single Dwelling – Entry No. 3

Project name: 204 Norsey Road

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Billericay, Essex

Background: 204 Norsey Road is a refined private residence located in the picturesque town of Billericay, Essex. This new build project was led by a collaboration between Arcady Architects Limited, Townley Masonry, and Woodstone Homes, resulting in the creation of an elegant family home.

Haddonstone cast stonework, crafted from high quality wet cast limestone in a refined Portland colour, was central to the aesthetic appeal of the property. This material was chosen for its durability, natural beauty, and ease of maintenance. Key components supplied for the project included columns, a portico, window and door surrounds, gate piers, balustrade, copings, and steps. Each element was carefully designed and manufactured to not only enhance the building’s visual impact but also meet the rigorous standards in structural performance and safety.

A particularly charming aspect of the project was the feature staircase leading from the garden to the pool area. The staircase was designed to create a visually stunning focal point while also adhering to building regulations. It was surrounded by a balustrade, with bespoke under-coping to achieve the correct height for compliance. The team also created customer radius items, including step risers, which were essential for the staircases smooth flow and function.

The collaboration between all contributors ensured that the stonework was intricately detailed, adding to the properties grandeur. The bespoke components were manufactured with precision and care, ensuring the final product met both the architectural vision and the technical requirements.

The project successfully combined architectural elegance with practical design, creating the home that will stand the test of time.

The project was completed in late 2024.

Awards Category 2 – Best Residential/Single Dwelling – Entry No. 4

Project name: Ascot Private Residence

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Ascot, UK

Background: We were proud to contribute to this private estate located in Ascot, a stunning example of large-scale classical design.

Craftstone expertise brought this vision to life with our bespoke cast stone wet-cast and GRC: Intricately designed Portico, string courses, copings and ornate window and door surrounds complete with stunning canopies and pediments.

AWARDS CATEGORY 3 – Best Use of Cast Stone in a Unique/Small Project.

Awards Category 3 – Best Unique/Small Project – Entry No. 1

Project name: Bespoke House Name Plaque

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Hetfield Heath, Essex

Background: For this private residential project, our client sought a bespoke house name plaque that would reflect both elegance and individuality. The original brief was for a leaf themed plaque, and initial discussions led to a series of preliminary design ideas. Initially considering an engraved plaque, it quickly became clear that a more striking 3D design would offer the desired impact.

The design process evolved as our client and the Haddonstone team decided between 2 leaf types- acanthus, which would complement the acanthus finials already supplied for the property, or an oak leaf. Our in-house sculptor expertly crafted models of both options using modelling clay, for our client’s approval. Our client chose the oak leaf design, complete with acorn detailing. Once the design was finalised a detailed model of the plaque was then produced.

After reviewing the model, the team worked together on a mock up of the house name, ensuring that the chosen font perfectly complemented the overall design. Once all elements were approved, the plaque was cast in a classic Portland colour using our wet cast material.

The finished house name plaque, with its bespoke 3D leaf detailing, added a sophisticated touch to the residents, combining craftsmanship with a modern design approach. The project successfully achieved a striking, personalised feature that enhance the homes exterior while reflecting the client’s unique taste.

The project completed in December 2024.

Awards Category 3 – Best Unique/Small Project – Entry No. 2

Project name: Manor House Entrance Hall Extension

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: UK

Background: Thorverton Stone created the client’s vision of a feature entrance door and window surround replicating the detail of the existing house, showing stone internally and incorporating an energy efficient thermal brake. It was the wish of the client to make this the centrepiece of an impressive residence and therefore needed to have the wow factor and be meticulously finished.

The design challenges included:

Matching the new internal and external stone profile details to the existing window surrounds. This was especially important into the apex, where accuracy it was paramount to achieve the correct visual result and measurements were relative to the final positions of stone pieces around steels that were not yet fitted.

Shaping the stone around the engineer designed steel structure partially erected previously, leaving no margin for measuring or making inaccuracy. There are also many other chamfers and details to match long size of the surround, as can be seen in the pictures.

Incorporating fixings, structural reinforcement and thermal insulation.

Documentation and assembly support for the builder, who was not familiar with the use of cast stone.

Awards Category 3 – Best Unique/Small Project – Entry No. 3

Project name: Acorn Farm Gate Lodge

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Derry, Northern Ireland

Background: St Columbs’s Park is a stunning 70-acre green space named after the city’s patron saint, St Columba.

Home to the 18th-centure St Columb’s Park House and a Walled Garden, the park is undergoing an exciting transformation led by Derry City Council, including a new period-style gate lodge to complement the historic surroundings.

Serving as the administration hub for the Acorn Farm redevelopment, this ultra-low energy Passive House is a remarkable fusion of heritage and sustainability. Designed with a traditional exterior, the lodge is built to 21st-century energy efficiency standards, with plans to incorporate Photovoltaic panels, ensuring it becomes a Net Zero Operational Carbon building.

CraftStone are proud to have contributed to this landmark project, supplying wet-cast porticos, window surrounds, and chimney caps, enhancing the lodge’s classic architectural charm.

Awards Category 3 – Best Unique/Small Project – Entry No. 4

Project name: Shurlock Row

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Reading

Background: Woodside Cast Stone are proud to submit this exceptional structural portico replacement project for consideration in the best small project category of the UKCSA awards 2025. This project involved the supply of a structural cast stone portico, replacing an existing door surrounding canopy to enhance both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the property.

The project required the removal of the ageing door surrounding canopy, which had deteriorated over time. The replacement structure was designed and manufactured using high quality wet cast stone to achieve a timeless, classical appearance while ensuring structural durability.

UKCSA associate member, McCormick Construction Consultancy, carried out the expert installation of the portico, ensuring a seamless integration with the existing building. Their attention to detail and precise execution in short of the portico not only met but exceeded the client’s expectations.

The completed Portico stands as a testament to the excellence of cast stone craftsmanship and the collaborative effort between UKCSA member and associate member. The new structure enhances the entrance of the property providing an elegant yet robust solution that will stand the test of time.

WhatsApp Image 2025 02 13 At 19.15.34 50bea204

AWARDS CATEGORY 4 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Restoration/Refurbishment Project.

Awards Category 4 – Best Restoration/Refurbishment Project – Entry No. 1

Project name: Horlicks Quarter

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Slough

Background: Woodside Cast Stone are proud to submit our restoration work for the former Horlick’s factory, where we expertly supplied a precast stone door surround replicating the original green stone entrance around. This project demonstrates our commitment to precision craftsmanship, historical authenticity, and the high standards of cast stone restoration.

The Horlick’s factory is an iconic industrial building in central Slough, with a rich history, known for its distinctive architecture and significant heritage value. As part of a wider regeneration effort, a key challenge was the faithful replication of a unique green stone door surround that had suffered extensive deterioration over time.

Project challenges and solutions:

Material Matching: The original surround was composed of a rare green huge natural stone, requiring extensive research and development to achieve an accurate precast stone match. Our team conducted material analysis and custom pigmentation to create take us to mix that perfectly replicated the original aesthetic.

Architectural integrity: Working from historic photographs and on site remnants, we carefully reconstructed intricate detailing, ensuring that the new surround seamlessly integrated with the existing façade.

Manufacturing precision: utilising advanced moulding techniques and high quality materials, we produced a robust and visually authentic replacement that would stand the test of time while remaining true to the building’s heritage.

Installation considerations: the new surround was engineered for ease of installation without compromising structural integrity. Our collaborative approach with the client and restoration team ensured that seamless fitting and a flawless finish.

Project outcome: the restored entrance of the Horlick’s factory now stands as a testament to the value of expert craftsmanship in heritage conservation. The project has been widely praised for its historical sensitivity and technical excellence, preserving the character of this land mark building for future generations. We are honoured to have played a role in restoring this iconic piece of British industrial heritage, and we believe this project exemplifies the outstanding quality and craftsmanship celebrated by the UKCSA awards.

Horlicks Quarter Horlicks Factory Exterior Image 7 15 05 2024

Awards Category 4 – Best Restoration/Refurbishment Project – Entry No. 2

Project name: St George’s Church

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Brentford

Background: A spectacular modern apartment development finished to an exceptional standard in one of Brentford’s most exciting new gated developments.

St George’s church is one of Brentford’s most exciting new gated developments, comprising 20 stylish apartments within an elegant church building in a popular waterfront location. This charming conversion has maintained many of the churches original features while incorporating modern facilities.

The project featured Craftstone’s reconstituted Buff sandstone (wet cast) string courses, copings and large window surrounds. Craftstone was approached by the architect to help with the complex design of introducing new cast stone features into this refurbishment project.

Awards Category 4 – Best Restoration/Refurbishment Project – Entry No. 3

Project name: EMD Soho Theatre

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Walthamstow, London

Background: The restoration of the historic Granada cinema on hoe St, Walthamstow, has transformed the building into Soho Theatre Walthamstow, a vibrant 960 seat live performance venue. The £30 million investment led by Waltham Forest council, revived the grade 2 listed building, returning it to its former glory whilst introducing modern cultural features. The restoration forms part of the council’s London borough of culture 2019 legacy, aiming to place culture at the heart of the community.

Haddonstone focused on the use of cast stone, specifically wetcast limestone, to preserve and restore key architectural features. We supplied bespoke string courses, cornices, and coping to the Dutch Gable of the building. A new motif, designed collaboratively by Simon and our team, was created to reflect the original scroll detail of the Gable. All of the stonework was crafted from wet cast limestone and in Portland colour, ensuring a seamless blend of new and historic materials.

The building’s restoration was output process, aiming to maintain the Spanish-Arabic architectural style while incorporating modern touches. Cast stone played a critical role in this balance, with our wet cast limestone material chosen for its durability and ability to replicate intricate detailing, ensuring the integrity of the building’s aesthetic. The stonework was essential in restoring both the historic facade and the structural features, giving the venue its new life while respecting its past.

Once completed, Soho theatre Walthamstow will offer a variety of life performances, including comedy, theatre, and music, along with a host of community focused events. The venue will also feature 4 bars, a restaurant, and studio spaces, enriching the local communities cultural landscape. The collaboration with Soho theatre ensures the space will serve as a hub for both local residents and visitors, offering a wide-ranging programme of events and outreach activities.

This restoration project was not without its challenges. The need to preserve historical accuracy while adapting the building for modern use requires careful consideration and collaboration. The use of cast stone was integral in overcoming these challenges, allowing us to replicate the ornate detailing of the original architecture and blend it with new structural elements. The project’s success was a testament to the skilful integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern restoration techniques, ensuring that this beloved heritage landmark will continue to serve the community for many years to come.

The project completed in early 2025 and the new Soho Theatre Walthamstow will open its doors in May 2025.

Awards Category 4 – Best Restoration/Refurbishment Project – Entry No. 4

Project name: Renovation and re-modelling of a period property

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: UK

Background: Thorverton Stone were to create the client’s remodelling vision, fitting at the large property in an exclusive area. The property also stands in a conservation area where planning and building changes are closely controlled.

Working with the client, Thorverton stone created a front door surround which achieved a level of grandeur, which could be accepted by planning. In addition, Bay window, regular windows, garage and French door surrounds were required. These were all produced as cladding to precisely fit both existing and new openings.

Outside of the property, formed steps with integrated risers were used in two places to finish the entrances, garden gate arch and wall coping which incorporated several changes of level with sweeps. To finish it off, an impressive car and pedestrian entrance were formed with matching shade cast stone quoins.

The design challenges included:

Meeting the client’s exacting design detail and working this into existing as well as new door and window openings.

Working the boundary wall coping in the space and catering for all the level changes and corners, so that the lines flowed effortlessly from one level and direction to the next.

Incorporating fixings and stainless steel reinforcement into thin cladding type components.

Designing and manufacturing in stages, to accommodate the discerning client’s ongoing wishes and reacting appropriately to ensure that the tight timescale could be achieved.

AWARDS CATEGORY 5 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

Awards Category 5 – Best Landscape Project – Entry No. 1

Project name: Beco Building, Dragonfly Plot 4, Barclays Campus

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Glasgow

Background: Originally built in 1878 as a draper’s warehouse and showroom, The Beco evolved over the decades to accommodate a diverse mix of shops, offices, and warehousing. In more recent years, however, the building fell into disrepair and faced demolition. Historic Environment Scotland objected, leading to its preservation and transformation as part of the Barclays Glasgow Campus—a landmark regeneration project in the heart of the city.

The redevelopment included the full refurbishment of the historic structure, the creation of modern office space, and the enhancement of a public realm area at the rear. Landscape Architects OOBE, in collaboration with Stallan Brand, drew inspiration from the natural flow of the sea and sand, shaping the design around the ‘Social Stream’ concept. This vision organically channels movement from the city and river toward the heart of the Barclays site. The landscape geometries reference the campus building grid while incorporating biophilic hexagonal forms to immerse visitors in nature.

As a UKCSA Full Member, Plean Precast worked closely with Associate Member 3D Patterns and Moulds, Main Contractor Graham Construction, and specialist planter supplier Logic Manufactured Bespoke to bring this vision to life. Our team manufactured and supplied approximately 480 cast stone elements, totalling over 73 tonnes. These components—crafted in a bespoke Granite White concrete mix with a light acid-etched finish—include bench units, seating steps, slabs, and copings.

The project presented significant logistical challenges due to tight site constraints, requiring meticulous planning for the delivery and installation of each element in a rigid sequence. Additionally, we provided technical guidance to the groundworks contractor, Deans Civil Engineering, who carried out the installation on behalf of the main contractor, ensuring precision and alignment with the design intent.

The completed Plot 4 landscape offers a dynamic, multifunctional outdoor space. Designed to support informal meetings, pop-up events, café and food stalls, and even DJ performances, it fosters an engaging and adaptable urban environment. The modular furniture integrates greenery at multiple levels and is built to withstand urban use, supporting activities such as skateboarding, roller skating, and parkour.

The result is a vibrant urban oasis—a destination within a dense cityscape, blending heritage with innovation and social interaction. This project has also been shortlisted for the 2025 Pineapple Awards for Public Space, further recognizing its contribution to high-quality placemaking.

Awards Category 4 – Best Landscape Project – Entry No. 2

Project name: Highwall House

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

Background: This impressive private residential property is located in the scenic town of Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire. Designed in a timeless Georgian style, the project ethos was to blend elegant architecture with meticulously crafted outdoor spaces. The landscaping plays a key role in complementing the grandeur of the new build, with various bespoke cast stone features incorporated throughout.

A prominent feature of the design is the rear garden, which was transformed into a luxurious outdoor retreat centred around a stunning pool area. Bespoke balustrades were created for the poolside, including balusters, under copings, piers, and a plinth course. These finely crafted elements added a sense of classical elegance to the pool area, helping it blend harmoniously with the overall design of the property.

To further enhance the garden’s aesthetic, several carefully chosen garden designs were integrated into the landscape. This included complementary traditional cast stone planters and fountains, each providing striking focal points throughout the outdoor space. These classical pieces were strategically placed to add texture, height, and visual interest to the garden, creating an inviting and refined atmosphere.

In addition, the front of the property was complemented by a sleek cast stone pool surround, which framed the pool and served as a stylish finishing touch to the driveway. This well-designed feature added sophistication and balance to the overall landscape, ensuring a seamless transition from the property’s architectural structure to its outdoor surroundings.

The Haddonstone cast stone elements used throughout the landscaping were crafted from wet-cast limestone, a material selected for its timeless appeal and lasting quality. The smooth, refined finish of the stonework ensured that all elements complemented the Georgian style of the house while offering exceptional durability for the outdoor environment.

Overall, the landscaping at Highwall House not only elevated the beauty of the property but also created a serene and elegant space for outdoor living. The bespoke cast stone features provided a sense of continuity and refinement, making this new build a true testament to classic design principles that stand the test of time.

The project was completed in spring 2024.

Awards Category 4 – Best Landscape Project – Entry No. 3

Project name: Bernish House

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Newry

Background: Craftstone was thrilled to contribute to an incredible landscape project in Newry, collaborating with the immensely talented Diarmuid Gavin, an award-winning garden designer.

We were honoured to receive these kind words from him about the project:

As a garden designer, I am always searching for ways to merge functionality with beauty, ensuring that every element of a garden serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. For a private garden project in Newry, Northern Ireland, I envisioned a series of circular concrete-reinforced slabs that would not only provide access across a sloping site but also stand as a striking sculptural centrepiece. This required a level of craftsmanship and precision beyond the ordinary.

Craftstone took on this challenge with remarkable skill, delivering a series of beautifully cast, large-scale circular steps that exceeded all expectations. Their ability to interpret and execute my vision with such accuracy was exceptional. The surfaces of the slabs are stunning, providing a tactile, visually engaging feature that harmonises perfectly with the surrounding perennial planting and pictorial meadow.

By day, these steps define the garden’s structure, offering a bold yet elegant counterpoint to the softness of the planting. By night, underlighting transforms them into floating discs, reinforcing their sculptural quality and enhancing the garden’s atmosphere. Their presence has truly been the making of this project.

Awards Category 4 – Best Landscape Project – Entry No. 4

Project name: Huntley Wharf

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Reading

Background: Woodside Cast Stone are proud to submit the seating and planter surrounds at the prestigious Huntley Wharf development in Reading for the UKCSA Best Landscape Project Award 2025. This high-quality residential and mixed-use development by Berkeley Homes required a durable and aesthetically refined landscape feature that would complement the contemporary urban design and enhance its riverside location.

Project Details:

The seating and planter surrounds were designed to integrate seamlessly with the wider landscape, offering both functionality and visual appeal. Manufactured using precision-moulded cast stone, the units provide the aesthetic of natural stone while ensuring long-term durability and weather resistance. The modular design allowed for efficient installation while maintaining a bespoke look tailored to the site’s unique landscaping scheme.

A UKCSA Associate Member, PCS Limited, was responsible for the professional installation of the planters, ensuring alignment with the highest industry standards. Their expertise in handling cast stone elements was instrumental in achieving a flawless finish.

Project Outcome:

The Huntley Wharf seating and planter surrounds exemplify the highest standards of cast stone craftsmanship and installation. This collaboration between a UKCSA Full Member & Associate Member, PCS Limited, has resulted in a landscape enhancement that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of Berkeley Homes and its residents. It perfectly demonstrates the enduring value and beauty of cast stone in modern developments.

AWARDS CATEGORY 1 – Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed Use Project.

AWARDS CATEGORY 2 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Residential Project/Single Dwelling.

AWARDS CATEGORY 3 – Best Use of Cast Stone in a Unique/Small Project.

AWARDS CATEGORY 4 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Restoration/Refurbishment Project.

AWARDS CATEGORY 5 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

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